More than half of the drownings occur in backyards. With summer fast approaching, the message from authorities to homeowners is that while they may have fencing around their pools, it is vital to ensure gates and latches are actually functioning properly.
Victorian State Coroner, Judge Sarah Hinchey, has urged vigilance.
"Even the best barrier, which was in perfect working order, after a year in the elements may have bolts that are loose or rust may begin to develop or the post moves in the ground and the gate no longer latches," she said.
Ambulance paramedic Michelle Murphy has witnessed first hand the impact of tragedies around the water.
"Drownings are all preventable. The ones that I have experienced have related to gates broken, gates wedged open... people just not being vigilant," she said.
Next month's start of daylight savings has been earmarked as a timely pre-summer milestone to conduct those fence checks.
With drowning one of the leading causes of death for children under five, swimmer and father-of-four, dual Olympic silver medallist Matt Welsh, is passionate about spreading the word about pool safety.
It's a particularly important message for cultures that may not be as familiar with the water as his own.
"For people who are new to the country who haven't had that upbringing I think it's really important that they understand that yes, it is a fun, great place to be and it should remain that but it also can be a really dangerous place," he said.
According to Kidsafe Victoria Vice-President, Robert Caulfield, for every child that drowns another twelve nearly die and can be left with permanent brain damage.
"In many situations the migrant children may not have seen a swimming pool in the country that they came from. they see the Aussie kids having fun, they want to be involved in that and they can get themselves into trouble very quickly, " he said.
Last year, more than half of the toddler drownings occurred in backyards.
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